The Gaines Share How to Score a Fixer Upper (And Not a Money Pit)

By now, fans are more than familiar with the plot of Fixer Upper: Tour homes, buy fixer upper, fix it up, and finish with a big reveal worthy of tears of joy (or, in our case, envy). And since Chip and Joanna Gaines help people buy a new house in every single episode (or do they?!), they've certainly earned their reputations as experts.

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The trick is purchasing a property that needs some renovation work — true. But it also shouldn't drain your savings with hidden costs and should have added value when you eventually look to sell. So if you're on the hunt for a renovation project of your own, keep this advice in mind that the Gaines always give their home buyers.

1. Ignore your knee-jerk reactions.

When walking into a fixer upper for the first time, you're going to see a few (or, you know, a ton) of things you don't like at first — that's why it's listed at such a good price. Instead, of focusing on the foul smell or drab green carpet, imagine what the home could look like with a fresh lemon scent or hard wood floors.

2. Make sure the foundation is solid.

Even if you find a home that's priced right, foundation issues could set you back big time. "Always get an inspection to make sure the home is structurally sound; we've seen foundation issues that will cost up to $20,000," Joanna told Architectural Digest. "If the cost of the structural issues is cutting too much into the total renovation budget, we know it's not 'the one' and encourage our clients to keep looking."

3. Think about the other ways you'll save.

Even if the home isn't as inexpensive as you might want, you might cut costs in other key areas — like education. Finding a home in a good school district means you won't have to worry about paying for expensive public schools. Don't have kids? This location will still add to the resale value of your home when you look to sell.

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